Pregnancy: Your Second Trimester Changes

Each day, you and your baby are changing and growing together. Here’s a quick look at what’s happening to both of you.

How you are changing

Even when you don’t notice it, your body is adapting to meet the needs of your growing baby. The changes in your body might also affect your moods.

Your body

Your uterus expands as baby grows. As the weeks go by, you will feel more pressure on your bladder, stomach, and other organs. You may notice some skin color changes on your forehead, nose, or cheeks. Freckles may darken, and moles may grow. You may notice a darker line on your abdomen between your belly button and pubic bone in the midline.

Your moods

The second trimester is often easier than the first. Still, be prepared for mood swings. These are due to the increase in hormones (chemicals that affect the way organs work) produced by your body. These mood swings are a normal part of pregnancy.

How your baby is growing

Month 4

Baby’s heartbeat may be heard with a Doppler (hand-held ultrasound device) by 9 to 10 weeks. Eyebrows, eyelashes, and fingernails begin to form.